by D. Vogt

Created on: July 09, 2010

Spironolactone is a diuretic and antiandrogen medication which is prescribed for heart failure, ascites (following liver disease), certain cases of high blood pressure, and Conn's syndrome, in which the body overproduces the aldosterone hormone. Because of these effects it may also be prescribed in a range of other cases, including to treat excessive hairiness in women, as part of hormone replacement therapy, and the growth in facial hair which can result from ovarian cysts. Some studies indicate it may also be helpful in limiting dementia, although this is not a standard use currently. It comes as a tablet, taken on a schedule determined by the doctor but typically either once or twice daily.

Note that spirnolactone is the chemical name for a drug which is also marketed under a number of brand names, including Aldactone, Berlactone, Aldactazide, Spiractin, Spirotone, and Novo-Spiroton.

You and your doctor should discuss the risks of taking spironolactone if you have already experienced an allergic reaction to the same drug in the past, or if you are taking Midamor (amiloride), Dyrenium (triamterene), or potassium. You may also be cautioned against taking spironolactone if you are pregnant, or if  you have experienced kidney or liver problems.

According to the National Institutes of Health, there are a number of relatively common and mild side effects of spironolactone. These include digestive system difficulties (cramps, nausea or vomiting), dizziness, headaches, enlarged breasts, sexual dysfunction in men, unexpected vaginal bleeding in women, fatigue, increased masculine attributes (more body hair and a deeper voice), and fatigue. As with all medications which may cause drowsiness, it is important not to operate a vehicle or heavy machinery if you may come under the effects of spironolactone while doing so. Otherwise, you should discuss these possible side effects of spironolactone with your doctor only if they are particularly serious or persistent.

In addition, however, there are a number of less common side effects of spironolactone which indicate a more serious reaction to the drug may be taking place. Serious side effects of spironolactone need to be reported immediately, and include pain or tingling in the extremities, partial paralysis (an inability to move limbs), irregular heartrate, fever, cold skin, fainting, bloody vomiting or passing blood in the stool or urine, and an irregular heartbeat. In such cases you may need immediate medical attention. A person who enters a coma, experiences convulsions, or has difficulty breathing also requires urgent medical attention, and may be experiencing an overdose of spironolactone.

The National Institutes of Health caution that spironolactone has caused cancer in laboratory tests involving animals.

The above information is based on research into publicly available sources. However, as with all prescription medication, there is no substitute for professional medical advice from your doctor and your pharmacist, which should always be followed precisely.

- Sources and More Information -

Mayo Clinic. "Spironolactone (Oral Route): Side Effects."

National Institutes of Health. "Spironolactone: MedlinePlus Drug Information."

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